Children with Special Needs Week one 15/11/10

Today’s plan Introductions Outline of the course Definition of special needs Models of Disability Disability awareness Language

Introductions

Outline of course

Definition What do we mean by children with special needs? Is this the right terminology?

Models of Disability Medical Model Social Model

Medical Model Sees a child or adult as a problem because of their disability or special needs. Labels disabled person as “ill” and in need of treatment May fail to take into account a disabled persons own views and feelings

Social Model Society is seen as the problem not the disabled child or adult Rejects the medical model of disability but does not deny the need for medical care Acknowledges those with disabilities as people first and foremost

Social Model continued Emphasises the need for structural change to enable disabled people to take charge of their own lives in a society that is inclusive, accessible and supportive of personal rights, choice and freedom.

Disability Awareness Means understanding, valuing and embracing difference and diversity, responding positively to what disabled children and adults consider important in their lives and respecting the human and civil rights of all disabled people

Disabling Barriers Things that prevent people with impairments from being able to participate in everyday activities. 3 Main categories Attitudinal Environmental Institutional (Alison John)

Some ideas Understanding and responding positively to the social model of disability Professionals, parents, carers and all members of society listening and talking to disabled children and adults, learning directly from them

Breaking down barriers facing people with disabilities Recognising and challenging discrimination, bias, stereotyping, inappropriate language and behaviour Helping the person concerned understand why their approach was wrong or insensitive

Breaking down barriers facing people with disabilities Displaying and using positive images of children and adults with disability in books, playthings Understanding the need for social change and an accessible, inclusive environment Has your work setting an equal opportunities policy

Exercise Small groups/pairs/class List words that you have used / seen to describe a child with a disability

Review list and highlight words you think are acceptable

Language - Words that disabled people find most acceptable Disabled people / person Wheelchair user Accessible toilet Non – disabled people Person with an impairment / conditions People with learning disability Do you have specific needs?

Next week Normal development from birth throughout childhood